Memory Lane: Vatican City

In 2016, visiting Vatican City was something I had dreamed of for years. The day started with a tour of the museums. Honestly, it was a bit overwhelming. The crowds were thick and the atmosphere rushed. At one point, I got told off for using a longer stick with my GoPro. Not my finest moment. The only place that really felt calm was the Sistine Chapel. No photos allowed there, which somehow made the experience even more special. Standing beneath Michelangelo’s ceiling felt like stepping into a sacred silence amid the buzz outside.

After the museums, we explored the basilica and the square. That part of the visit was deeply emotional for me. As a Catholic, walking into St Peter’s Basilica on my birthday was a dream come true. I found myself quietly crying. It was a powerful moment, one I will never forget. The vastness and beauty of the basilica filled me with awe. Being there felt like a blessing, a spiritual milestone.

The visit wasn’t perfect, but it was real. Crowds and all, Vatican City left its mark on me.